"Argumentation and Persuasion": Reading Check Flashcards
What are considered the fraternal twins of rhetoric?
Argumentation and persuasion
What is the difference between argumentation and persuasion?
An argument appeals strictly by reason and logic;
Persuasion appeals by both logic and emotion
What determines what tactic (argumentation or persuasion) one should adopt?
The forum in which the argument takes place
How is argumentation different from other modes of writing?
It is a term of rhetorical intent, not of form
What is argumentation?
It refers to any essay or speech whose aim is to sway or persuade a reader or listener
When do writers apply the techniques of argumentation and persuasion?
When they’re trying to bring someone around to their opinion or point of view;
When they’re required to advocate one side over another
What elements are most likely to sway readers in an argumentative essay?
-Perception of the writer’s credentials to hold an opinion on the subject
-Quality of its reasoning
-Appeal to self-interests
What are the basic requirements for any effective argument?
Logical reasoning and solid evidence
To write a persuasive argument, what should you do? (1 and 2)
- Begin your argument at the point of contention.
- Draw your evidence from multiple sources. (If you’re unable to, find a topic you’re truly interested in.)
To write a persuasive argument, what should you do? (3 and 4)
- Pace your argument with some obvious movement.
- Begin your argument with an assumption that is either grounded in evidence or defensible. (Don’t base your argument on personal belief.)
What reader/listener attitudes should you consider when making an argument?
- Ho hum! (Use a provocative introduction)
- Why bring that up? (Use clear, forceful language)
- For instance? (Supply evidence and facts)
- So what? (Restate thesis; what you expect the reader to do)
To write a persuasive essay, what should you do? (5 and 6)
- Anticipate the opposition. (And counteract it.)
- Supplement your reasoning and evidence with an emotional appeal.
To write a persuasive essay, what should you do? (7)
- Avoid common logical fallacies.
What is a logical fallacy?
Occurs when one draws a conclusion that is false or deceptive
What is “Ad hominem” (Latin: “to the man”)?
The writer mounts a personal attack on an individual rather than dealing with the argument under consideration
What is “Ad populum” (Latin: “to the public”)?
The writer appeals to feelings, passions, or prejudices shared by large segments of the population
What is false analogy?
The writer mistakenly compares two situations that have some characteristics in common, treating them as if they were alike in all respects
What is begging the question?
An argument that “begs the question” is one that moves in circles rather than forward
What is ignoring the question (also known as the “red herring”)?
Involves shifting the focus of discussion to points that have nothing to do with the basic argument
What is either-or reasoning?
The writer sees an issue in black or white, with no shades of gray in between
What is hasty generalization?
The writer uses evidence that is not sufficient or representative
What is “non sequitur” (Latin: “it does not follow”)?
An argument based on a non sequitur has a faulty premise
Why do writers use logical fallicies?
When they do not use solid evidence to support their arguments but instead rely on flimsy hearsay, illogical connections, or improperly tested assumptions
What is the purpose of “Why Don’t We Complain?”
To argue against passivity in the face of outrageously poor service
What is the audience of “Why Don’t We Complain?”
Educated readers
What is the language of “Why Don’t We Complain?”
Standard English with a snooty touch
What is the strategy used in “Why Don’t We Complain?”
A variety of examples embedded in a narration
Who wrote “Why Don’t We Complain?”
William F. Buckley, Jr.
What illustrations form the backdrop for Buckley’s argument? Summarize each in one sentence.
It was hot inside the train, which was crowded. The temperature was 85. He was at a movie theater and the picture was slightly off, but his wife doesn’t want him to complain.
